Jodie Cheesman

Experimentalist

I contribute to safer, more sustainable pest control strategies that benefit Queensland.

A passionate, resilient and driven Entomologist with 10 years’ experience, Jodie brings her strong knowledge of insect species and the ability to recognise common diseases and pests to her role as Experimentalist with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Jodie works in Mareeba, a town on the Atherton Tableland in Far North Queensland.

“I love my job and its location… when I’m not exploring Lake Eacham, the Granite George or Emerald Creek Falls, I’m fighting to control pests, such as fruit piercing moth, fruit flies and fruit spotting bugs,” says Jodie.

“I’ve been in my current role for 2.5 years, working with a wonderful group of dedicated scientists to research novel strategies to control pests to help our Queensland farmers. This ultimately results in safer, better quality fresh produce on the plates of all Queenslanders.

“Prior to joining the Queensland public sector, I worked for the federal Department of Agriculture and Water Resources for 6 years as an Entomologist assisting in identifying pests intercepted at the border.

“A tree change brought me to the Atherton Tablelands and with it the opportunity to join the very strong Entomology Team in Mareeba.

“The prospect of working in a dynamic field that contributes to safer, more sustainable pest control strategies that benefit producer, consumers and the environment is very exciting and rewarding.

“My experience with the sector has been amazing, not only because it’s diverse and challenging, buts because I have a supportive environment to thrive professionally.”

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